Page 66 of Mine Again
I quickly look away, focusing hard on the foam on my cappuccinolike it’s a piece of abstract art.
Andrea says something. I nod, not really listening. My thoughts are spiraling.
I’d forgotten how handsome Sebastian was.
Andrea and I continue to sip our drinks in silence, each of us nursing our cups like they hold answers.
I let my gaze wander the café again. And I can’t help it; my eyes find Sebastian’s table once more.
He’s still there, still watching me.
My heart stutters, then kicks back into gear, pounding louder than before. Caught in the act, I look away too quickly.
Should I go over and say hello after Andrea leaves?
He winked earlier. That means he remembers me, doesn’t it?
I’m still weighing my options when he stands and starts walking in my direction, his eyes locked on me.
Oh no. He’s not coming over, is he?
But that’s exactly what it looks like. He’s walking straight toward this table. Toward me.
He moves like he owns the ground beneath him, calm and effortless. Everything about him is composed and intentional.
I, on the other hand, am anything but.
In fact, I freeze.
My pulse spikes so much I almost drop my cup.
My fingers go clammy against the ceramic, slick with panic and heat.
This can’t be happening. Not now. Not while Andrea is still sitting here, stewing over a goodbye that hasn’t happened yet.
I don’t owe Andrea an explanation, but how would I even introduce Sebastian?
My stomach drops. I stare at the table.
In my periphery, Sebastian moves closer. Three tables away. Two.
I sense his eyes on me. My body reacts like I’m on a roller coaster, caught in that breathless drop before the fall, all anticipation and nowhere to run.
My hands shake, the awkwardness about to detonate.
But at the last second, Sebastian veers left and disappears into the restrooms.
I exhale sharply.
Andrea looks up, puzzled. “You okay?”
“Yeah. I’m…” I let the sentence trail off. I honestly don’t know how to finish it. Let him think I’m upset because he’s leaving.
“I’m sorry we didn’t get more time, Isa. I wish things had played out differently.”
I don’t answer, giving him a tight smile instead, though not for the reason he assumes.
Andrea clears his throat and pushes his empty cup away. “I should get going.”
